"If we win, we praise Him. If we lose, we praise Him"

I rarely ever quote movie lines. That's primarily because I can never remember them but it's also because there really are few worth devoting brain space to. This quote from Facing the Giants is a clear exception and has become a family battle cry during the past few months.

It becomes particularly important as we head into a weekend filled with hopes waiting to be realized or disappointed; of challenges and joys; competition and fellowship.

To help keep a correct perspective and our eye on the Ultimate prize, we made a family banner to rally our hearts around a healthy purpose and loving community when worldly influences threaten to invade.

At the top of the banner reads:

What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul? -- Mark 8:36

In the middle, we placed our "team" name...Our family name. A reminder that we are going to be there for each other long after the children lose contact with their coaches and teams.

At the bottom, we have all of our names (all the way down to Baby)...A reminder that "team" means so much more than goals, numbers and trophies. We are united in a higher purpose to love and to give honor and glory to God.

The kids get it. It hardly required an explanation. I think they might understand it even better than I do...At least, they don't feel the pull of the world as much as I do. "Don't forget the banner, Mom!" I won't forget the banner.

My name is Melody... homeschooling mama of 8 (plus one in the arms of Jesus). Married 19 years to Mr. Right. Every moment is Grace and my Joy is God's Mercy. This is my place to seek His Beauty, give witness to Hope, and eat a good helping of Humble Pie.

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